Walnut Creek Terror as Armed Felon Arrested After Firing Gunshots at Shopping Center

According to a Facebook post by the Walnut Creek Police Department (WCPD), the situation began on August 16, 2023, when they received a call about a vehicle driving dangerously on N. Main Street, with the driver reported to be holding a gun. Subsequently, witnesses alerted the police about the vehicle crashing into a shopping center at 2900 N. Main Street, followed by the sound of several gunshots fired in the air by the driver, now identified as 30-year-old Eric Clausen from Brentwood.

Immediately following the report, a nearby Walnut Creek Police officer arrived on scene, though Clausen managed to flee on foot. A widespread search, which included the utilization of drones and assistance from a California Highway Patrol helicopter, was initiated by police officers to locate the armed suspect. Approximately an hour into the search, a WCPD officer found Clausen hiding behind a nearby business, and he was subsequently arrested without further incident.

The firearm involved in this case was later discovered by the police, while fortunately, no injuries were reported among the suspect, officers or any individuals in the vicinity. Clausen, who has a prior criminal record, now faces multiple weapons violation charges.

The charges filed against the suspect on August 18th by the Contra Costa District Attorney's Office include possession of a firearm by a felon, willful discharge of a firearm with gross negligence, and carrying a loaded firearm in a public place.

Walnut Creek Police Department is urging anyone with information about this case to contact them at 925-943-5844 or call the Anonymous Tip Line at 925-943-5865 – helping ensure a safer community for every resident.